Four years after Russia’s unprovoked, attempted full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, Fastmarkets examines how the war has reshaped the Ukrainian and global steel and grain markets, outlining the key challenges faced by these sectors as they have adapted and endured.

Wheat futures pushed higher across major exchanges on Friday February 20, supported by firm sentiment in the Black Sea and steady export premiums in key origins.

After 26 years of discussion and strong opposition from European farmers, the European Union has approved the EU-Mercosur trade agreement on Friday January 9. The agreement provides for the gradual reduction of tariffs, common rules for trade in industrial and agricultural products, investments, and regulatory standards.

Ukraine’s corn exports have slowed to their lowest level in a decade despite a solid harvest, with continued logistical constraints restricting shipment volumes and consequently supporting prices.

Chicago and Kansas wheat futures decreased on Friday December 5 as market participants focused on ample global supplies and favorable growing conditions in competing export regions, such as Europe and Canada.

The 2026 Black Sea Wheat and Corn Outlook highlights a stabilized yet evolving grain market, with Russia and Ukraine adapting to post-conflict logistics, competitive pricing, and strong production despite ongoing regional challenges.

The Global Grain Geneva 2025 Conference highlighted an industry navigating a "new normal" of uncertainty, where geopolitical upheavals, climate challenges, and sustainability demands are reshaping grain markets, supply chains, and risk strategies.

Fastmarkets’ weekly recap of the main movements in global cash markets.

China’s state-owned buyer purchased up to three soybean cargoes from the US this week at prices above Brazilian offers, marking the first deals for the autumn harvest, several market sources in China said on Wednesday October 29.

Fastmarkets has launched AG-CRN-0131 Corn fob Brazil Northern Arc $/mt and AG-CRN-0132 Corn fob Brazil Northern Arc Premium c$/bu on Monday November 3.